Breeding Tools

Cutting-edge genetic technologies accelerating next-generation crop innovation

Modern breeding technologies are transforming crop development. We use advanced tools such as genomic selection, CRISPR gene editing and dRenSeq diagnostics to accelerate the creation of resilient, high-yielding varieties that meet the evolving needs of growers, retailers and consumers.

As your breeding partner, and breeders ourselves, James Hutton Institute can be instrumental in harnessing these technologies to enhance crop performance and sustainability. By integrating cutting-edge research with practical applications. The Institute has successfully developed varieties for our customers that thrive in challenging climates, resist pests and disease challenges, and improve nutritional profiles

For breeders, this is done quicker than ever before. For producers, these innovations translate into efficiencies, reduced inputs, and increased market competitiveness. By adopting modern breeding tools, farmers can be the biggest beneficiary and ensure food security while minimising environmental impact. 

Join us in embracing the future of agriculture—where science meets sustainability, and every seed has the potential to make a difference. Discover how the James Hutton Institute is leading the charge in modern breeding and shaping a more resilient agricultural landscape


Join us in embracing the future of agriculture—where science meets sustainability, and every seed has the potential to make a difference. Discover how the James Hutton Institute is leading the charge in modern breeding and shaping a more resilient agricultural landscape. 

Jamie Smith, Business Development Manager

drRenSeq is an in-house technology that enhances the ability to explore and understand genetic material, driving innovation in various sectors, including healthcare, agriculture, and biotechnology. 

  • Enhanced Efficiency: It allows for faster and more accurate sequencing of DNA and RNA, improving throughput and reducing costs. 
  • Precision: dRenSeq can provide more detailed information about genetic variations, which is crucial for research and clinical applications. 
  • Scalability: The technology can be scaled to accommodate large samples, making it suitable for both small labs and large-scale genomic studies. 
  • Applications in Medicine: It supports advancements in personalized medicine, helping to identify specific genetic markers associated with diseases. 
  • Research Advancements: By facilitating complex genomic studies, dRenSeq contributes to discoveries in fields like cancer research, microbiome studies, and evolutionary biology. 
  • Automation: The technology can be integrated into automated workflows, reducing manual labour and the potential for human error. 
Blackberry Blossom
Blackberry Blossom
Potato Flower
Potato Flower
Strawberry blossom
Strawberry Blossom

What are breeding tools in plant science?

Breeding tools are scientific methods and technologies used to support the development of improved crop varieties. James Hutton Institute Scientific Services uses advanced breeding tools to accelerate the identification and selection of desirable plant traits.

How do modern breeding tools improve crop development?

Techniques such as molecular markers, genetic analysis and phenotyping help researchers identify beneficial traits more efficiently. James Hutton Institute Scientific Services uses these tools to improve breeding accuracy and shorten development timelines for new crop varieties.

Why are breeding tools important for sustainable agriculture?

Breeding tools allow scientists to develop crop varieties that are more resilient to pests, diseases and climate pressures. James Hutton Institute Scientific Services uses these technologies to support sustainable food production and agricultural innovation.

Contact for more information

Business Development Manager of Agri -Tech Services; and Business Development Manger of The National Potato Innovation Centre
Based in Dundee
T: 07766763157
A decade as James Hutton Limited’s Agri-Tech Business Development Manager. Ten years in post spearheading key industrial partnerships and commercially focused business development activities for at least two major UK Innovation Centres (JHI itself, and The National Potato Innovation Centre (NPIC)), as well as the sector lead for a broad and diverse range of Agri-Tech services within the commercial division of Europe’s largest agricultural and environmental research organisation, The James Hutton Institute